Category Archives: berroco

FINISHED PROJECT Bente Throw

We’ve finished up a bunch of samples made with Berroco Wizard, which I’ll be sharing in the next few days …. they’re turning out soooooo beautifully, it’s definitely my favourite new yarn of the year! Wizard is super soft, light, airy, colourful, and slightly textured – perfect for the process and the product knitter in us all! Plus it;s machine washable, so it’s open season for kids & baby knits, sockies & etc. I just finished Malou in it, and I’m already planning to cast on for a second in a different colour. Nuff said?

See Favourite Kits & Projects 

Bente

Bente is a super soft & squishy mosaic stitch blanket made using one color of Wizard. It also works up relatively quickly on 8mm/US11 needles. The painterly colour effects come from working from two balls simultaneously (don’t worry, it’s easy). Our kits are available in both a throw size and a baby blanket size (see modifications below), since the yarn is machine washable.

Skill Level: Intermediate-Beginner (after scarves). (Mosaic stitch is an extremely easy form of colour knitting and only involves slipping stitches from the left needle to the right. 

Skills: Knit, slipping stitches, following a pattern, alternating balls of yarn (carrying yarn up the side/stripes)

SEE OUR CURATED LIST OF KNITTING SKILLS 

Size

  • Approximately 52″ / 132 cm wide x 62″ / 157.5 cm long
  • To make a baby blanket size (approx 36″ x 40″) cast on 115 sts. 

Gauge

When checking your tension do so with WET BLOCKING to get the most accurate stitch gauge.

  • 13 sts and 24 rows = 4″ / 10 cm in pattern stitch

Kit Includes:

Kit DOES NOT include:

Berroco Wizard is a super soft, light & happy bulky weight yarn. It stripes by itself, with bold colors flowing. It has a chainette construction which makes it feel deliciously airy and weightless. The consruction is also respinsible for it’s very generous 240m yardage – the same amount of a typical bulky weight yarn would normally be about 100m to 125m. Wizard is also machine washable, so it’s great for all kinds of projects including blankets, sweaters, hats, scarves, mitts – even a cozy pair of -slipper-socks!

  • 85% Superwash Merino Wool, 15% Nylon
  • 100g/240m (264 yds)
  • Bulky Weight
  • 6mm to 6.5mm/US 10 to 10.5 needles
  • 6.5mm/K crochet hook
  • Knitting Gauge: 14-16 sts & 20-23 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Crochet Gauge: 13 sc & 16 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Machine wash separately in cold water on delicate cycle. Lay flat to dry.Made in Italy
  • When checking your tension do so with WET BLOCKING to get the most accurate stitch gauge.

Projects & Patterns

FINISHED Galatee Kit

Galatee

Galatee is simple and classic, let the color change of the yarn do all the work. I really like this sweater, the yarn is thick and knits up quickly, but it’s allso light and full of air, so it doesn’t FEEL like a thick, heavy yarn. I don’t normally wear bulky yarns, they’re a bit too warm and feel a little ungainly for my taste, but this one I’m into, and this sweater I LOVE (thanks to Adrienne for making up our sample).

Our sample (above) is knit in colour 3825 Catskill, Berroco’s sample is made with 3811 Appalachian.

Construction

Galatee is knit in the round from the bottom-up. The body and sleeves are worked in the round to underarms, then joined to work the yoke in the round. The neck is shaped using short rows

Note

  • This sweater is designed cropped. Check the length to see if it is right for you, and if you are in the size 46″, 50″, 62″, 66″ range consider ordering an extra ball of yarn if you want to make your sweater longer. 
  • We went up a needle size to get gauge (we used 7mm/US10.75 & 9mm/US13). If your dashes aren’t looking right then you may also need to change needle sizes too.

Skill Level: Advanced beginner to intermediate (see our curated list of knitting skills for support).

Size

  • Finished Bust: (34, 38, 42) [46, 50, 54, 58] {62, 66, 70}” / (86.5, 96.5, 106.5) [117, 127, 137, 147.5] {157.5, 167.5, 178} cm
  • Length: (20½, 21, 21) [21½, 21½, 22, 22] {22½, 23½, 23½}” / (52, 53, 53) [54.5, 54.5, 56, 56] {57, 59.5, 59.5} cm
  • Shown in size 38″ / 96.5 cm.
  • Recommended ease: approximately 2–6″ / 5–15 cm positive ease.

Gauge: 12 sts and 16 rnds = 4″ / 10 cm in St st on larger needle

Yarn

Berroco Dash is a fluffy chainette yarn that’s super soft and light. Painted with random but uniform “dashes” of color throughout, this bulky weight yarn is all squishy, soft fun.

  • 92% Superwash Merino Wool, 8% Nylon
  • Super Bulky Weight
  • 9mm to 10mm/US13 to 15 needles
  • Made in Italy
  • Hand wash in cold water. Lay flat to dry.

Kit Includes

  • Berroco Dash: (3, 4, 4) [4, 4, 5, 5] {5, 5, 6}  (our sample is knit in colour 3825 Catskill, Berroco’s sample is 3811 Appalachian)
  • Pattern

Materials NOT Included

If you don’t already have the right needles in your we recommend interchangeable needles, like the Knitter’s Pride, or invest in an interchangeable needle set.

  • 6mm/US10 – 16″ circular needles (we used 7mm/US10.75 to get gauge)
  • 6mm/US10 – 32″ circular needles (we used 7mm/US10.75 to get gauge)
  • 8mm/US11 – 16″ circular needles (we used 9mm/US13 to get gauge)
  • 8mm/US11 – 32″ circular needles (we used 9mm/US13 to get gauge)
  • 6mm/US10 double pointed needles (we used 7mm/US10.75  to get gauge)
  • 8mm/US11 double pointed needles  (we used 9mm/US13 to get gauge)
  • 4 stitch markers, 1 a different color for beginning of round (BOR)
  • Tapestry needle
  • Waste yarn

Pre-Order

This yarn is a special-order product and we aren’t stocking it in the store on a regular basis – you have the option to order it any time (it will be available to purchase as long as the manufacturer makes it available to us). Your order will ship or be available for pick-up once it arrives, and we will contact you. If you need your yarn for a specific date please let us know and we can find out if it’s feasible. 

SALE ENDS SOON! & Long Weekend Hours

Labour Day Weekend Store Hours

I’m needed by my family this weekend for an 80th birthday party, followed by my sister-in-law’s departure for her first academic conference (we’re so proud of her!), so I’m taking an extra day off this Saturday. The last weekend of the summer is not traditionally a busy one in the yarn store, so I don’t think you’ll miss me too, too much. I adore it when you come by, but I also love it when people are out taking advantage of beautiful weather and just enjoying life.

Friday: 12 pm to 6 pm

Saturday: CLOSED

Sunday: CLOSED

Monday: CLOSED

Tuesday: 12 pm to 6 pm

My current reading suggestion is A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle. You can read it on paper, digitally download it, or get it as an audiobook (which is read by the author), so you can knit/crochet/wash dishes/walk/run/get your nails done while you read. It is also accompanied by a chapter-by-chapter podcast with Oprah (stream free online or on any podcast service, including Spotify), so you can test the water and see if it’s for you, and if it is, you can read along with the author, lady-O, and regular people asking really good questions. I feel kind of silly having come so late to the Tolle party (especially after seeing Oprah’s podcast was recorded in early 2019), but I guess I wasn’t ready. Now that I’m here I see exactly why Oprah has been such a fan. Tolle isn’t just talking about spiritual life, he’s talking about LIFE (or to the point, spiritual life IS life).

If you’re at a place where you want to change yourself, your life and our world for the better, this book is a great point of reference to help you level up. Just one caveat – people who are negative and aren’t ready to leave that state won’t get this book (and judging by the reviews online it seems to make them really angry). If you have a negative person in your life, giving them this book won’t ‘fix’ them – they have to be open to healing themselves. People who aren’t quite ready, but are getting there, might read a chapter or two but it won’t stick, it’ll sort of go through them – if this is you or a loved one it’s a good sign, hold on to the book, it’ll be there for you when it’s needed next. Anyway, the best books are always the ones you can read over and over and get something new from each time.

Effortless Cardigan

Get your fall off to a great start with a simple cardie you can wear everywhere, all the time. The Effortless Cardigan is made with a simple worsted weight yarn and ONE pair of 4.5mm – 32″ circular needles. It’s knit from the top-down in one piece (the underside of the sleeves are seamed, but if you prefer you can knit them in the round). The pattern is free, and there are a range of affordable yarn options, so if you end up loving your sweater you can keep making them and fill your wardrobe!

See Finished Projects

Size

  • Finished Bust (not including front bands) 34 (38.5, 42, 45.5, 49.5)” in.” or (86.5 (98, 106.5, 115.5, 125.5) cm)

Yarn Options

  • Berroco Vintage: Super soft, machine washable, blend of wool & synthetic. ($10.47 ea.) – 4 (5, 5, 6, 6) balls
  • Drops Air: Cozy and light – super soft baby alpaca blown in an airy nylon core. ($10.97 ea) – 6 (7, 7, 8, 8) balls
  • Cascade 220 Superwash: Soft, machine washable, 100% Peruvian wool at a very affordable price (go up a size in the pattern). ($13.97 ea.) – 4 (5, 5, 6, 6) balls
  • Berroco Summer Sesame: Great for warm climates … light, machine-washable, colourful and slightly textured (go up a size in the pattern). SALE $14.98 (Reg. $19.97) – 3 (4, 4, 5, 5) balls
  • Cascade 220 Superwash Merino: Super soft, machine washable, 100% Merino wool at a very affordable price (go up a size in the pattern). ($15.97 ea.) – 4 (5, 5, 6, 6) balls
  • Malabrigo Rios: Super soft, hand-dyed, machine washable, 100% Merino wool. We suggest alternating skeins to get the best colour distribution. ($23.97 ea) – 4 (5, 5, 6, 6) balls

Other Materials

SEE ALL SALE PRODUCTS

Our SUMMER SALE is ending Sept 5th! Select products (including some clearance items and craft kits!) are now 25% OFF. The discount is online and in-store, and it will be automatically be added at check-out, so you don’t have to jump through any extra hoops or remember to put in a discount code (this discount can not be combined with any other offers or discounts – you won’t be able to use another discount code when you check-out).

See our Past Project Ideas For:

Berroco Remix Light: SALE $11.98 (Reg $15.97)

See Projects

Quince & Co Kestrel: SALE $11.98 (Reg $15.97)

See Projects

Quince & Co Sparrow: SALE $11.22 (Reg $14.97)

See Projects

Berroco Summer Sesame: SALE $14.98 (Reg. $19.97)

See Projects

Rico Creative So Cool So Soft: SALE $8.98 (Reg. $11.97)

See Projects

Berroco Pima Soft: SALE $7.48 (Reg. $9.97)

See Projects

Assorted Crafty Kits 25% Off

SUMMER SALE EXTENDED 25% OFF

SEE ALL SALE PRODUCTS

Our SUMMER SALE CONTINUES! Select products (including some clearance items and craft kits!) are now 25% OFF until September 5th, 11:59pm. The discount is online and in-store, and it will be automatically be added at check-out, so you don’t have to jump through any extra hoops or remember to put in a discount code (this discount can not be combined with any other offers or discounts – you won’t be able to use another discount code when you check-out).

See our Past Project Ideas For:

Berroco Remix Light: SALE $11.98 (Reg $15.97)

See the Projects Above

Quince & Co Kestrel: SALE $11.98 (Reg $15.97)

See the Projects Above

Quince & Co Sparrow: SALE $11.22 (Reg $14.97)

See the Projects Above

Berroco Summer Sesame: SALE $14.98 (Reg. $19.97)

See the Projects Above

See the Projects Above

Rico Creative So Cool So Soft: SALE $8.98 (Reg. $11.97)

See the Projects Above

Lion Brand Pima Cotton: SALE $5.98 (Reg. $7.97)

See the Projects Above (and many more!)

Berroco Pima Soft: SALE $7.48 (Reg. $9.97)

See the Projects Above

Assorted Crafty Kits 25% Off

PROJECTS Hand Towels & Cloths (Freebies)

All of our Summer yarns are on sale now! Take advantage of all the cottons & linens while the weather is warm!

See our Past Project Ideas For:

Photo: Purl Soho

Colorfield Hand Towels (Knit)

I came across these sunny hand towels a few times and felt like they were full of YUP! They’re a good size, 22″ wide x 37″ long, but of course you are welcome to up or downscale them – they’re just rectangles, after all. They’re made with a simple linen stitch that creates a woven look on one side and a nubbly texture on the other. And the pattern’s free – sweet!

The Yarn

Cascade Ultra Pima is a silky soft, light cotton. It’s easy to work with on both knitting needles or crochet hook. I often recommend it for baby blankets or afghans because it’s so soft and machine washable, and it doesn’t have the hardness or lack of give that’s common in so many cotton yarns.

I was so eager to share this project with you that I rephotographed the Cascade Ultra Pima (it was time). All the new images have been colour corrected, so they’re as close to the original as was possible … not an easy task with cotton, the light reflected off the surface makes it really tricky! Any old photos left are colours that were out of stock and couldn’t be photographed.

Photo: Purl Soho

Materials

  • Cascade Ultra Pima: 4 skeins in main colour, 1 skein in contrast colour (makes 2 hand towels, recommend 3718 Cream for main colour and 3764 Sunshine for contrast colour)
  • 4.5mm/US7 – 32″ circular needles
  • FREE Pattern

Colour Suggestions

The following colours of Cascade Ultra Pima are all smashing combined with colour 3718 Cream:

  • 3755 Tomato
  • 3764 Sunshine
  • 3833 Antique Moss
  • 3845 Robin’s Egg Blue
  • 3772 Cornflower
  • 3759 Taupe

Alternate Yarns

Berroco Remix Light is also a great option! Because of it’s generous yardage You’ll need half as much yarn: 2 skeins of the main colour and 1 of the contrast will make two hand towels)

Photo: Purl Soho

Farmhouse Towels (Knit)

Make some towels that are so beautiful you’ll never want to use them! That’s ok, some things you use until they’re shredded, and some you keep out to please the eye. Both have their roles in our lives. The pattern is a FREEBIE, and makes for some simple, elegant summer knitting.

Quince & Co Sparrow is my favourite yarn for this project, I love how this linen looks, the silky feels after being washed, and also how resilient it is (it gets better going through the wash) . My second personal choice would be

Berroco Remix Light is the budget friendly, earth friendly, use-friendly option – it has so much yardage, two skeins of the main colour will make 3 towels, and 3 skeins will make 5. Plus it’s recycled, has a neat texture, is easy to knit with and wash.

Cascade Ultra Pima is the last on the list, but not the least. This silky smooth pima cotton is a staple, and is always a joy to knit with and wear. If you like a plain, flat aesthetic, this is your yarn of choice.

ALL OF THE YARN SUGGESTED ARE ON SALE TO AUG 14th!

Materials

Alternate Yarn Options

For the following yarn options you’ll probably want to go up to a 4mm/US6 needle.

  • Cascade Ultra Pima: MC: 2 skeins, CC: 1 skein. (3 skeins of MC will make 2 towels)
  • Berroco Remix Light: MC 1 skein, CC: 1 skein. (2 skeins of the MC make 3 towels, 3 skeins of the MC will make 5 towels)
Mother’s Day Washcloths by Purl Soho

Mother’s Day Washcloths (Crochet)

Please don’t leave the crocheters out! Crochet has got to be a super fast, easy way to make cloths.

Yarn Options

Cascade Ultra Pima: MC: 2 skeins, CC: 1 skein.
Berroco Remix Light: MC 1 skein, CC: 1 skein.

Materials

Photos: © Purl Soho

Colorful Half + Half Washcloths

Size

  • Approximately 12 inches wide x 11½ inches long
  • Each cloth requires approx 202m of yarn sport/dk weight yarn

Yarn Options

Each cloth requires approximately 200m of yarn sport/dk weight yarn

Materials

Photo: © Purl Soho

New Log Cabin Washcloths

Size

  • Approximately 8 inches x 8 inches

Yarn Options

Materials

© Purl Soho

Tiny House Washcloths

Size

  • Approximately 6 inches wide x 9½ inches long, at widest and longest points

Yarn Options

  • Quince & Co Sparrow: 1 skein per colour, 1 skein of main colour makes 2 cloths ON SALE TO SEPT 6

Materials

© Purl Soho

Simple Stripe Washcloth

Note: the pattern seems to have neglected to explain how to make an I-Cord (the loop at the tops of the cloth), so here is an I-cord tutorial for those of you who are not familiar with the technique. Alternately, you can skip the I-cord, make your cloth loop-free and just weave in your ends – there’s no rule that says a cloth must have a loop.

Size

  • Approximately 10 x 10 inches

Yarn Options

Main Colour: 100m required per washcloth. Contrast Colour: 24m required per washcloth.

Materials

PRE-ORDER Berroco Wizard Kits

Who wants to think about Fall when we’re in the middle of Summer? Me! When I saw Berroco Wizard I knew the projects were winners, and when the yarn for our store samples showed up I knew I’d be happy, but it wasn’t until I cast on that I realized it was BASHERT (a Yiddish term referring to something that is destined, like a soul mate).

I’m making Malou, a simple pullover (see below), in colour 2954 and it’s just sooooo gorgeous. It’s like if Noro and Missoni collaborated and said: “Hey, wouldn’t it be great if we could make everything Haley ever wanted in a yarn?!” I thought the colourway would work up looking more blue, but you know what – I don’t care! It’s GORGEOUS, it’s better than what I wanted it to be, it’s what I need.

Berroco Wizard is a super soft, light & happy bulky weight yarn. It stripes by itself, with bold colors flowing. It has a chainette construction which makes it feel deliciously airy and weightless. The consruction is also respinsible for it’s very generous 240m yardage – the same amount of a typical bulky weight yarn would normally be about 100m to 125m. Wizard is also machine washable, so it’s great for all kinds of projects including blankets, sweaters, hats, scarves, mitts – even a cozy pair of -slipper-socks!

  • 85% Superwash Merino Wool, 15% Nylon
  • 100g/240m (264 yds)
  • Bulky Weight
  • 6mm to 6.5mm/US 10 to 10.5 needles
  • 6.5mm/K crochet hook
  • Knitting Gauge: 14-16 sts & 20-23 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Crochet Gauge: 13 sc & 16 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Machine wash separately in cold water on delicate cycle. Lay flat to dry.Made in Italy
  • When checking your tension do so with WET BLOCKING to get the most accurate stitch gauge.

Projects & Patterns

Pre-Order

These kits as a special-order and we aren’t stocking them in the store on a regular basis – you have the option to order it any time (it will be available to purchase as long as the manufacturer makes it available to us). Your kit will ship or be available for pick-up once it arrives, and we will contact you. If you need your kit for a specific date please let us know and we can find out if it’s feasible. 

Aleid

Aleid is a simple stockinette hat and mitten set, perfect for gifting. Also a great beginner project! You can order the kit as just the hat, just mitts, or both.

Skill Level: Hat: Beginner (after scarves); Mitts: Advanced Beginner (after hats)

Size

  • Hat: 18″ / 45.5 cm around x 9½” / 24 cm high (not including pom-pom)
  • Mittens: 7″ / 18 cm around x 10½” / 26.5 cm long (length is adjustable

Gauge

When checking your tension do so with WET BLOCKING to get the most accurate stitch gauge.

  • 20 sts and 28 rnds = 4″ / 10 cm n Rib Pattern and St st

Kit Includes:

  • Berroco Wizard: 1 ball for each hat & mittens (shown in colour 2948)
  • Pattern (PDF & Printed – after checking out you will receive an email with a link to download a PDF of the pattern)

Kit DOES NOT include:

Bente

Bente is a mosaic stitch blanket using one color of Wizard. Working from two balls simultaneously creates a dynamic color change throughout the blanket. Kits are available in both a throw size and a baby blanket size (see modifications below).

Skill Level: Intermediate-Beginner (after scarves). (Mosaic stitch is an extremely easy form of colour knitting and only involves slipping stitches from the left needle to the right. 

Skills: Knit, slipping stitches, following a pattern, alternating balls of yarn (carrying yarn up the side/stripes)

SEE OUR CURATED LIST OF KNITTING SKILLS 

Size

  • Approximately 52″ / 132 cm wide x 62″ / 157.5 cm long
  • To make a baby blanket size (approx 36″ x 40″) cast on 115 sts. 

Gauge

When checking your tension do so with WET BLOCKING to get the most accurate stitch gauge.

  • 13 sts and 24 rows = 4″ / 10 cm in pattern stitch

Kit Includes:

Kit DOES NOT include:

Malou

Malou is a simple pullover in Wizard, a great first sweater. Body and sleeves of this garment are worked in the round to underarms. Pieces are then joined and yoke is worked in the round to the neck

Skill Level: 

Size

This sweater is designed cropped – to make yours longer please purchase an extra ball of yarn. 

  • Finished Bust: (34, 38½ , 42½) [47, 51¼ , 55½] {59¾, 64, 68¼}” / (86.5, 98, 108) [119.5, 130, 141] {152, 162.5, 173.5} cm
  • Length: (21, 22, 23½) [23½, 24, 24¾] {26, 26½, 27}” / (53.5, 56, 59.5) [59.5, 61, 63] {66, 67.5, 68.5} cm
  • Shown in size 38½” / 98 cm.
  • Suggested ease: Approximately 2–4″ / 5–10 cm positive ease.

Gauge

When checking your tension do so with WET BLOCKING to get the most accurate stitch gauge.

  • 15 sts and 22 rows = 4″ / 10 cm in St st on larger needle

Kit Includes:

Kit DOES NOT include:

Sanne

Sanne is a must-make cardigan with ¾ sleeves, pockets and cozy shawl collar. It’s a wear-every-day kind of sweater. Shoulders are shaped using short rows and are then joined using 3-needle bind-off. Sleeves are then picked up and worked down. The hem and sides are finished with an applied I-cord.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Size

This sweater is designed cropped – to make yours longer please purchase an extra ball of yarn. 

  • Finsihed Bust (closed): (40, 48, 54) [61, 66, 72]” / (101.5, 122, 137) [155, 167.5, 183] cm
  • Length: (25½, 26, 26½) [27, 27½, 28]” / (65, 66, 67.5) [68.5, 70, 71] cm down center back
  • Shown in size 48″ / 122 cm.
  • Recommended ease: Approximately 6–10″ / 15–25 cm positive ease.

Gauge

When checking your tension do so with WET BLOCKING to get the most accurate stitch gauge.

  • 14 sts and 20 rows = 4″ / 10 cm in St st on larger needle

Kit Includes:

Kit DOES NOT include:

PROJECT The Beach Wrap (Full of Colour)

This will be the last project with Berroco Summer Sesame, I PROMISE! I just finished a new iteration of our Beach Wrap, this time made with some COLOUR to brighten things up. I was playing around with combining two multi-coloured yarns to see if I could take it to a greater depth, make it even more interesting, and of course knit the project up faster on larger needles. I held two strands of complementary colourways together, and just let them do their thing. You can also try holding two strands of the same colour but starting at different parts of the colourway.

Please see the notes below for a bit of strategy to help keep your colours consistent. When I started I was in a rush and I didn’t pay attention to where the yarn was in the colourway … when it was time to start the second balls of yarn my project evolved from a shawl into an exercise in letting go of expectations/the outcome/control and surrendering to the flow. Can you see in the picture above where things kind of shift? I like to think of it as a shawl of multiple possibilities, different paths and choices. When things just don’t want to go the way you wanted, the best thing you can do is let go and lean into the faith that life is working for your highest good (and maybe find the humility to accept that you may not know what that is).

The Beach Wrap has been a super popular project since its debut, and it makes a great canvas to paint on. It was created with accessibility in mind – I wanted it to be simple to knit, and incredibly wearable. The simple welted texture is random, completely reversible, and creates a classic, timeless look. The pattern is knitted on the bias, increasing in width as you go, so you can make it any size you like and you never have to worry about running out of yarn. We’ve written the pattern with a line-by-line chart, to help you keep track of your rows (a beneficial thing for everyone, but especially helpful for people with learning disabilities, brain fog, mommy brain, COVID brain, messy brain, etc). And the final bonus – it’s a FAST knit on 6.5mm/US10 (think quick gift)!

Notes

  • On this version we did three full pattern repeats, then worked 43 rows on the 4th repeat, then bound off. Our goal was to work until we ran out of yarn, which we did.
  • When you choose your yarn, try to choose skeins that start at or around the same point in the colourway.
  • When you start your project note whether you are taking the yarn from the inside or the outside of the skein, so you can do the same with the second ball.
  • If you want your dominant colour muted/toned down pair it with colour 5250 Sand

Size

  • 98”/245cm long (from tip to tip)
  • 23”/58cm deep (at longest point)

Materials

TRUNK SHOW Berroco Spring/Summer 2022 to June 13

Berroco has sent us a Trunk show – a handful of their summer samples to explore, and they are here in store until June 13th! Its a great way to check out different yarns, see how they knit, and explore patterns you might not have considered otherwise.

It takes a loooong time to load a project up to our online store, so I’ve only put the projects that I think are really special. If you want to make one of the others just contact us and we’ll make that happen the older fashioned way.

Sapphire

Sapphire was my favourite new pattern for Spring/Summer this year from Berroco. It’s such a sweet and wearable little top that looks good on all types of bodies. It looks sweet over a summer dress, or you can wear it with pants, a skirt – it goes with everything. The pattern was designed with Berroco Vivo, but thre are lots of yarn options you can go for (see below for options). To make the arms longer pick-up the sleeves and knit down in pattern stitch to your desired length.

SPECIAL ORDER A KIT HERE!

Construction

Sapphire is a classic dolman sleeve V-neck cardigan in an all-over textured stitch. Back, Right Front, and Left Front are each worked separately, with increases forming the dolman sleeves. Pieces are sewn together, then sleeve cuffs and button band are picked up and knit.

Size

Note:  Since this garment has a dolman sleeve, the bust measurement is very forgiving.  Go by the waist measurement when selecting your size.

  • Waist: (32½, 36, 40½, 44½) [48½, 52½, 56½, 60½] {64½, 68½, 72½, 76½}” / (82.5, 91.5, 103, 113) [123, 133.5, 143.5, 153.5] {164, 174, 184, 194.5} cm
  • Length: (17½, 18, 18¾, 19¼) [20, 20¾, 21¼, 22] {22¾, 23¼, 24, 24½}” / (44.5, 45.5, 47.5, 49) [51, 52.5, 54, 56] {58, 59, 61, 62} cm
  • Shown in size 36″ / 91.5 cm. Recommended ease:  Approximately 2–4″ / 5–10 cm positive ease.

The Yarn

Berroco Vivo is a bright and cheerful cotton yarn that features a delightful color flow. Tropical colors in a cottony soft fiber make it perfect for summer tops and accessories. Plus, it’s machine washable, making a great choice for summer tops!

  • 100% Cotton
  • 100g/290m (317 yds)
  • DK weight
  • 4mm/US6 needles 
  • 4mm/G hook
  • Knitting gauge: 5.5 sts = 1″ or 22 sts & 30 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Crochet gauge: 5 sc = 1″ or 20 sc & 25 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Made in Italy
  • Machine wash delicate, lay flat to dry

Gauge

  • 22 sts and 32 rows = 4″ / 10 cm in Moss stitch, on larger needle

Kit Includes

Kit DOES NOT Include

The pattern designer, Åsa Buchta, made herself a Sapphire using Berroco Remix Light (see below for details).

Yarn Substitutions

Want to make this sweater, but in a different yarn? We recommend the following:

Berroco Pima Soft

  • Soft as a cloud, if you like things simple this is a gorgeous option!
  • 100% super soft pima cotton with a bit of texture. (50g/113m, $9.97/ball)
  • (8,  8, 8, 11) [11, 11, 13, 16] {16, 18, 18, 21} balls

Berroco Remix Light

Berroco Summer Sesame

  • A great option if you want colour that’s a little more grown-up.
  • A machine-washable blend of cotton & acrylic that’s light, comfortable and colourful. (100g/270m, $21.97/ball)
  • (4, 4, 4, 5) [5, 5, 6, 7] {7, 8, 8, 9} ball

Berroco Vintage DK

  • Another great, affordable option for a spring/autumn cardie
  • A soft, machine-washable blend of wool & synthetic thats’ also affordable – great for lighter sweaters in cooler weather. (100g/266m, $9.97/ball)
  • (4, 4, 4, 5) [5, 5, 6, 7] {7, 8, 8, 9} skeins

Riveria

Riveria is one of those simple summer knits you love making AND wearing. It’s made in one piece from the top-down with Berroco Pima Soft, a super-soft cloud cotton. To make longer sleeves just keep knitting down instead of making the ribbing.

Construction

Riveria is a cheerful, simple cotton tee with a lace yoke. It’s worked from the top-down, in the round, to underarms, then divided for body and sleeves. The body is worked in the round to lower edge (the lace yoke pattern is charted).

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The Yarn

Berroco Pima Soft is a new, CRAZY SOFT, 2-ply yarn made with 100% pima cotton. It’s slightly textured, making it much more forgiving to knit with than a smooth cotton (which also makes weaving in ends and finishing easier). It’s perfect for anything you want to make, from tees, tanks, sweaters, chemo-hats, babies, blankets, cushions – you name it. It’s a DK weight (21 to 22 sts/4″ on a 3.75mm/US5 to 4mm/US6 needle) so it isn’t too heavy for warm weather or if your internal thermostat runs warm. It’s lovely for crochet and knitting, and is just right for all climates! It’s great for knitting and crochet, and I think it would also make a nice texture in a punch needle project.

  • 100% Pima Cotton
  • 50g/113m (123yds)
  • DK weight
  • 3.75 – 4mm/US5 – 6 needles
  • 21 to 22 sts & 29 to 30 rows = 4″/10cm
  • Hand wash in cool water, lay flat to dry
  • Made in Peru
  • PATTERNS USING THIS YARN

Size

  • Bust: (32½, 36½, 40½) 44½, 48½, 52½, 56½ {60½, 64½, 68½}“ / (82.5, 93, 103) 113, 123, 133.5, 143.5 {153.5, 164, 174} cm
  • Length: (20, 20½, 21) 21¾, 22¼, 22¼, 22½ {23, 23, 23½}” / (51, 52, 53.5) 55, 56.5, 56.5, 57 {58.5, 58.5, 59.5} cm
  • Shown in size 36½“ / 93 cm.
  • Recommended ease: 2–4” / 5–10 cm positive ease.

Kit Includes

Kit DOES NOT Include

  • 4mm/US6 – 16″ circular needles
  • 4mm/US6 – 32″ circular needles
  • 3.5mm/US4 – 16″ circular needles
  • 3.5mm/US4 – 32″ circular needles
  • 5 stitch markers
  • tapestry needle
  • scrap yarn

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Goshen

Goshen is one of my favroutie samples that came with the trunk-show. It’s a strudly little purse-sized bag you can wear over your shoulder or across your body. The pattern is designed with Berroco Medina, but you can also use Berroco Summer Sesame (3 balls), which might be easier to work with because it has some texture. Additional yarn alternative are included below (should you want to make it a solid colour, or marled, etc). I would 100%, no question make this for myself and/or as a gift.

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Construction

Goshen is worked with 2 strands held together throughout. It is worked flat and seamed.

Size

  • Bag portion measures approximately 12″ wide x 11½” high (not including strap),
  • Strap is 34″ long (includes tapering, strap is measured from top of bag opening)
  • The finished project weighs 252g, so there is extra yarn left-over to make your strap longer.
Taking a picture of a bag on your body is decidedly challenging …

The Yarn

Berroco Medina

Warm colors ebb and flow in this long-color repeating yarn that is ideal for summer accessories and garments. Berroco Medina blends cotton, acrylic, and viscose in a DK-weight yarn with gorgeous colors.

Gauge

  • 23 sts and 26 rows = 4″ over pattern stitch with 2 strands

Kit Includes

Kit DOES NOT Include

Other Yarn Options

In case you don’t want to wait for a kit (since the pattern is free online), here are some other yarn options that are in stock in store:

Enjoy sampling a few textured stitch patterns in this flattering spring tee. Vincas features a boxy shape and slight drop shoulders. 

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Size

  • Bust: (37¾, 41, 43¾, 46¾) [50, 53, 56] {59, 62, 65, 68]” / (96, 104, 111, 119) [127, 134.5, 142] {150, 157.5, 165, 172.5} cm
  • Length: (21½, 22, 22, 22½) [22½, 23, 23½] {24, 24½, 25, 25}” / (54.5, 56, 56, 57) [57, 58.5, 59.5] {61, 62, 63.5, 63.5} cm
  • Shown in size 41″ / 104 cm.
  • Recommended ease: Approximately 2–4″ / 5–10 cm positive ease.

Materials

  • Berroco Pima Soft:  (7, 7, 8, 8) [9, 10, 11] {11, 12, 13, 13} balls, shown in4633 Coral
  • 4mm/US6 needles (straight or circular)
  • 3.5mm/US4 needles (straight or circular)
  • 3.5mm/US4 needles – 16″ circular needles
  • 1 stitch marker
  • 2 stitch holders
  • Waste Yarn
  • FREE Pattern

Keshi

Keshi is a luxurious lace shawl that’s *surprise* worked in the round and cut open at the end! The cut stitches are then dropped and knotted to form fringe. Lace pattern is charted. Kit is $83.97 + tax and includes yarn & pattern.

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Size: Approximately 84″ / 213 cm long x 15½” / 39 cm wide 

Materials

  • Berroco Isola:  4 balls, sown in 8928 Burano {$20.97/ball}
  • 4mm/US6 – 32″ circular needles
  • 3 stitch markers (1 a different color for beg-of-rnd)
  • Pattern

Varya

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A casual tee with a diamond lace motif and split hem. Back and Front hems are worked separately, then joined and the body is worked in the round to the underarms.  Piece is then divided for back and front which are worked flat. Stitch patterns are charted.

Size

  • Bust: (38, 42, 46) [50, 54, 58] {62, 66, 70}” / (96.5, 106.5, 117) [127, 137, 147.5] {157.5, 167.5, 178} cm
  • Length: (21½, 22, 22½) [22½, 23, 23½] {24, 24½, 25}” / (54.5, 56, 57) [57, 58.5, 59.5] {61, 62, 63.5} cm
  • Shown in size 42″ / 106.5 cm. Recommended ease:  Approximately 4–6″ / 10–15 cm positive ease.

Materials

  • Berroco Meraki (50 grs): (6, 7, 7) [8, 9, 9] {10, 11, 12} balls #6009 Adore {$10.47/ball}
  • 4mm/US6 – 32″ circular needles
  • 3.75mm/US5 – 16″ circular needles
  • Scrap yarn to hold stitches
  • Pattern

Auden

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Auden is an all-over lace cardigan. Worked from the bottom up, fronts and back are separated and stitches are cast on for the sleeves. The fit is a relaxed and flattering kind of piece. Stitch pattern is both charted and has written instructions.

Size

  • Bust: (37, 41, 44½) [48½, 52, 56, 60] {64½, 67½, 72}” / (94, 104, 113) [123, 132, 142, 152.5] {164, 171.5, 183} cm – This includes a 5″ / 12.5 cm opening at the center front.
  • Length: (25½, 26, 26) [26½, 26½, 27, 27] {27½, 27½, 28}” / (65, 66, 66) [67.5, 67.5, 68.5, 68.5] {70, 70, 71} cm
  • Shown in size 41″ / 104 cm. Recommended ease: approximately 2–5″ / 5–12.5 cm positive ease

Materials

  • Berroco Remix: (4, 5, 6) [6, 7, 7, 7] {8, 9, 9} balls, sown in colour 3903 Almond
  • 4.5mm/US7 – 32″ circular needles
  • 4.5mm/US7 – 16″ circular needles
  • scrap yarn to hold stitches
  • 2 stitch markers
  • Pattern

Tay

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Have fun mixing stripes and textures in this simple and polished pullover. The sweater is made in pieces and seamed for a classic fit.

Size

  • Bust: (35¼, 38½, 41½) [44¾, 48, 51¼] {54½, 57½, 62½}” / (89.5, 98, 105.5) [113.5, 122, 130] {138.5, 146, 159} cm
  • Length: (22¾, 23, 23¼) [23½, 24, 24¼] {24½, 24¾, 25}” / (58, 58.5, 59) [59.5, 61, 61.5] {62, 63, 63.5} cm down center back
  • Shown in size 38½” / 98 cm. Suggested ease: 2–4″ / 5–10 cm positive ease.

Materials

  • Berroco Zinnia (50 grs): (5, 6, 6) [6, 7, 7] {8, 8, 9} balls each #7111 Marzipan (MC) and #7133 Peach Cobbler (CC) {$15.47/ball}
  • 4mm/US6 – 32″ circular needles
  • 4mm/US6 – 16″ circular needles
  • 5mm/US8 – 32″ circular needles
  • 4mm/US6 double pointed needles
  • 5mm/US8 double pointed needles
  • 2 stitch markers (2 different colors)
  • Scrap yarn
  • Tapestry Needle
  • FREE Pattern

Kattegat

Grab this shawl for the next time you need a touch of warmth! Worked in garter stitch with a lace edging it’s a simple and satisfying shawl.

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Size: Approximately 54″ / 137 cm across top x 14″ / 35.5 cm wide (at widest point)

Materials

Cosette

The classic tee, updated: knit flat from sleeve to sleeve with a shaped hemline and relaxed fit. Just the kind of modern take on a traditional garment to carry you through the warm days of summer. Try substituting Berroco Summer Sesame for a fun, colourful effect!

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Size

  • Finsihed Bust—36(40-44-48-52-56-60)”
  • Finished Length—22(22-22½-23-23½-23½-24)”
  • Shown in size 40″

Materials

  • Berroco Pima 100: 4(4-5-5-6-6-7) hanks #8431 Chrysanthemum
  • 3.75mm/US5 – 29″ circular needles
  • 4.5mm/US7 – 29″ circular needles
  • 3.75mm/US5 – 16″ circular needles
  • Waste yarn to hold sts
  • Pattern

PROJECT Sapphire in Berroco Remix Light

SAPPHIRE IN REMIX LIGHT

This iteration of Sapphire was whipped up by Åsa Buchta, the garment designer. It was originally envisioned in Berroco’s new multicoloured summer yarn, Vivo, but a great design should be able to grow beyond its yarn. Åsa made a version of this wardrobe staple for herself using one of our summer staples, the very wearable and very affordable  Berroco Remix Light (see below for more info on the yarn) – you can read more about her version on Berroco’s Blog. I think her sweater looks amazing over a summer dress, and I love that it looks great on bodies of all shapes and sizes (the pattern is VERY size-inclusive and goes up to a 76.5″ waist). For more yarn recommendations see below; the options aren’t endless, but they are definitely abundant!

FYI a real-world, physical sample of the original version of Sapphire will be visiting the store next week with Berroco’s Spring/Summer Trunk Show!

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PATTERN

Sapphire is a classic dolman sleeve V-neck cardigan in an all-over textured stitch. The back, right front, and left front are each worked separately, with increases forming the dolman sleeves. The pieces are sewn together, then the sleeve cuffs and button band are picked up and knit. See Details on Ravelry

THE YARN

Berroco Remix Light is a multi-seasonal yarn that’s so comfortable you’ll find the garments made with it become some of your favourites (you know, the one you wear over and over and over again, until you get tired of the colour so you make another in a new colour … etc). It’s super soft, light, breathable, machine washable, and it’s made in France from an eco-friendly blend of 100% recycled fibres.

It’s great for people who are allergic to wool, and light enough for perfect for people whose bodies run warm and wearing a knit is more about dressing and less about warmth. Its popularity also stems from its INCREDIBLE yardage – it’s a DK weight yarn that comes in a 100g/400m skein (for those of you who don’t live in a yarn store, that’s like a bonus 150m to 200m). Remix Light is great for sweaters, tanks, tees, blankets, socks, scarves, shawls, bags, etc. It’s great for everyone: babies, kids, adults. It also works beautifully for colourwork, especially stranded/fair isle. 

SEE OUR FAVROURITE PROJECTS WITH BERROCO REMIX LIGHT

  • 10% silk, 9% linen, 27% cotton, 30% nylon, 24% acrylic
  • 100g/400m (432 yds)
  • 3.75mm/US5 needles
  • Knitting gauge: 22 sts & 32 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Crochet gauge: 20 sc x 22 rows = 4″ (10cm)
  • Machine Wash in cold water, delicate cycle. Lay flat to dry.
  • Read more about how Berroco Remix and Remix Light are made HERE

SIZE

Note:  Since this garment has a dolman sleeve, the bust measurement is very forgiving.  Go by the waist measurement when selecting your size.

  • Waist: (32½, 36, 40½, 44½) [48½, 52½, 56½, 60½] {64½, 68½, 72½, 76½}” / (82.5, 91.5, 103, 113) [123, 133.5, 143.5, 153.5] {164, 174, 184, 194.5} cm
  • Length: (17½, 18, 18¾, 19¼) [20, 20¾, 21¼, 22] {22¾, 23¼, 24, 24½}” / (44.5, 45.5, 47.5, 49) [51, 52.5, 54, 56] {58, 59, 61, 62} cm
  • Shown in size 36″ / 91.5 cm. Recommended ease:  Approximately 2–4″ / 5–10 cm positive ease.

GAUGE

  • 22 sts and 32 rows = 4″ / 10 cm in Moss stitch, on larger needle

MATERIALS 

YARN SUBSTITUTIONS 

Want to make this sweater, but in a different yarn? We recommend the following:

Berroco Pima Soft

  • 100% super soft pima cotton with a bit of texture. (50g/113m)
  • (8,  8, 8, 11) [11, 11, 13, 16] {16, 18, 18, 21} 

Berroco Summer Sesame

  • A machine-washable blend of cotton & acrylic that’s light, comfortable and colourful. (100g/270m)
  • (4, 4, 4, 5) [5, 5, 6, 7] {7, 8, 8, 9} balls

Berroco Vintage DK

  • A soft, machine-washable blend of wool & synthetic thats’ also affordable – great for lighter sweaters in cooler weather. (100g/266m)
  • (4, 4, 4, 5) [5, 5, 6, 7] {7, 8, 8, 9} skeins

NEW Playful (re-run)

I don’t know why the formatting on this post went crazy … sometimes technology just doesn’t read our minds and things go sideways. I guess the way we choose to deal with the belly-flops is as important (if not more) than our successes? Anyway, that’s the story I’m telling myself today! So here is a re-run of our Playful Wrap, hopefully, the pictures will play nice this time. Have a great long weekend!

Playful

Playful is a great little project for travel or any other time when you want something portable and simple on your needles. It’s a little scarfy-shawly thing that works up quickly, making it very giftable and equally wearable. We used two contrasting colours of Berroco Summer Sesame (5238 Orchid, 5250 Sand) and took advantage of its natural self-striping abilities. The yarn’s texture also adds a little depth to the garter stitch, giving it a quasi-earthy richness (I love garter worked with textured yarns, they look so artisanal).

The Pattern is a freebie, and the project only requires one set of needles and two balls of yarn, so overall I think this project is an accessible little spring/summer treat.

Size

  • length: 14″/37cm high at widest point
  • width: 70″/175cm tip to tip

Materials

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Combining Colours

The striping works best when your yarns have a decent amount of contrast. In our case, the purple yarn is a reasonable amount darker than the beige. Any of the colours available in BERROCO SUMMER SESAME will work well with 5250 Sand as a contrast – you can’t go wrong with a neutral!

If you use two colours that are too close in value (the amount of lightness or darkness) or colour then you won’t see your stripes. For example, 5249 Alloy (black), 5242 Ocean (dark blue), and 5238 Orchid are all very dark, and you won’t see much contrast if you combine any of them.

Neutral colours, like natural, beige, grey, and black are often ideal contrast colours. Dark blues like Navy can also make a very clever contrast colour.

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Your reward for making it to the end… gratuitous bird photos! Never one to miss his 15 minutes of fame, Gru hopped up on the mannequin towards the end of the photography and made cute faces.